Hello everyone out there in winterwonderland (or summer depending on which side of the equator you call home). It's most definitely winter here. A California winter, which means nights in the low 30's, the 40's during the day and the thick pea soup fog that rises from the river.
I've been living in these boots all month long and I admit it's one of the things I love about winter. Boots!
I've been living in these boots all month long and I admit it's one of the things I love about winter. Boots!
We rarely see snow here at the capitol but less than two hours away is Tahoe and the Sierras and there is lots of snow up there by now. I'm finishing up my shopping this week. Just a few last minute stocking stuffers to buy and make.
Do you have all your gift making and shopping done?
Some of you will be celebrating Yule on the 21st, the longest night of the year and the start of daylight getting longer. I have been celebrating the winter solstice in my own quiet way for over 20 years. My son started joining me when he was around 3 or 4. I love that we get to share this tradition first before celebrating Christmas with the rest of our family.
The winter solstice also marks a time of new beginnings. Time to get rid of old stuff we no longer need in our lives, physically, spiritualy and emotionaly. I certainly have things I need to purge in all those areas so here's to new beginnings for all of us.
Image source: Tumblr
When my son was a toddler one of our favorite shows on PBS was The Big Comfy Couch. Do you remember Loonette the Clown and all her whimsical adventures? My very favorite episode is the one called Comfy and Joy. Loonette tries to stay up all night with Granny Garbanzo in her gypsy wagon to celebrate the longest night of the year.
It was a great way to teach him about Yule and other winter traditions celebrated around the world. Ever since then he has tried to stay up all night with me during the solstice. We light candles and make pancakes when the sun finally rises then try to get a few hours of sleep.
Some years he makes it all the way to sunrise and others he is out by midnight but I love that he still remembers watching that episode together and how magical it is to see the sun return. Hopefully he'll be up for staying up all night with me again this year.
Winter Gingerbread Pancakes from Yummly.com
I wish you a year of enchantment, peace, comfort and joy.
Happy Winter and a Blessed Yule
